A level Physics

There are a number of specific subject entry requirements, please visit our website to review the courses and entry requirements or alternatively please contact the Sixth Form for specific details.

*Please choose 3 subject courses from different blocks, you will automatically be added to Maths or English resit classes on enrolment if you do not achieve required 4 in Maths or English Lit/Lang but you must still meet requirements for entry per subject.

OCR A Level H557
QAN 601/4745/3

What will I study?
Students study this innovative and exciting Advancing Physics course which was developed in conjunction with the Institute of Physics.
In Year 12 students will study new communication technologies; how sensors are made; how materials change and perform under stress; Understanding Processes and Experimentation and Data Handling - how waves behave including light and sound; the nature of matter (including quantum physics) and how this can help to explain almost everything in the universe; the physics of projectile motion in space and time.
In Year 13 students will study a further three modules covering - gravity and the origins of the universe and what happens to matter at extreme temperatures; what atoms are made from and how they behave and electromagnetic machines. Over the two years students will also carry out a number of practical experiments which will be assessed in the exams but also lead to a separate “practical endorsement” grade.

HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED?
At A Level there are three examination papers which will include multiple choice, structured and extended response questions on Fundamentals of Advancing Physics, Advancing Physics and Practical skills in Advancing Physics. There is also the Practical Endorsement for Physics - A minimum of 12 practical activities to demonstrate practical competence. Performance will be reported separately to the A Level grade as a pass or fail.

What will I need to study this course?
Students need to have a good knowledge of Physics either as a single GCSE or as part of a GCSE Science course. Ideally they should have gained at least a grade 6 in Physics or at least a grade 6-6 in Combined science plus at least a grade 5 in GCSE Maths.

Where next?
This A Level course develops student skills in independent learning, team work, research and analysis. It can lead onto University study in Physics, Engineering, Medicine and other science based courses.